Purpose

I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.
Showing posts with label xkr. Show all posts
Showing posts with label xkr. Show all posts

Tuesday, 6 September 2016

120 Jaguars, old and new, entered the Jaguar Trophy 2016 at Windsor Castle last weekend.

  • 120 Jaguars, old and new, entered the Jaguar Trophy 2016 at Windsor Castle
  • ‘Best in Show’ winner of 2016 Jaguar Trophy was a remarkable 1954 XK120 Open Top Sports SE owned by Barrie Woolston
  • ‘Coach Built Era Cars’ category won by a stunning 1934 SS1 Tourer owned by Colin and Ann Stewart
  • ‘Saloons’ category won by an immaculate pale blue Mk I owned by Michael Bing
  • ‘Sportscars’ category won by Series I E-type Coupe Chassis No. 5, owned by Stuart Cardwell
  • ‘Classics of the Future’ category won by Phillip Dyson’s 2002 XKR
The Jaguar Trophy returned to the Concours of Elegance 2016 at Windsor Castle on 3 September for the annual Jaguar Land Rover Saturday.
The overall winner of the Best in Show Jaguar Trophy was Barrie Woolston, owner of a remarkable XK120 Open Top Sports SE (OTS SE).  
Woolston’s XK120 has been modified for rallying with its aero screens and fluted bonnet, but also customized with modern disc brakes – helping the car’s drive-ability and enjoyment in modern road conditions, making for a non-standard car, and an unusual winner.

Director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic Tim Hannig explains: “To purists, this car is wrong and non-standard in so many ways, I think the only truly original feature is the carpet, however, it is a very well deserved winner of the Jaguar Trophy.  The reason is two fold – first, and simply, all of us judges unanimously agreed that of the 100-plus vehicles we looked at, it is the one we would most like to drive home in.  Secondly, Barrie has bought this car to drive it, and enjoy it for what it is meant to be – an exciting, usable and very beautiful Jaguar.  He has put thousands of miles on it and enjoyed it as a drivers car, a character of this XK120 which is enhanced by its modifications.  They add to the car, and add to its appeal, which is why it is a really great winner of the Jaguar Trophy.”
The XK120 was joined in the winners’ presentation by an immaculately restored SS1 Tourer, which took the ‘Coach Built Era Cars’ category award.  ‘KV 9740’ was the subject of a 25-year restoration by its owner Colin Stewart, who bought the car in derelict condition from Texas in 1990.  The car made it’s concours debut in 2015 at Pebble Beach.
Winner of the Sportscar class was a Series 1 E-type, appropriately registered ‘1600 HP’ and owned by Stuart Cardwell.  Chassis number 5, this right hand drive fixed head coupe was the very first E-type to feature internal bonnet locks, and was presented in beautiful original condition.
The winner of the Saloon class was an immaculately presented Mk 1, owned by Michael Bing, while the Classics of the Future class went to a pristine XKR from 2002 – Phillip Dyson’s ‘DG52 XKR’.
Eight judges made up the Jaguar Trophy panel, led by John Edwards (Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations) and Tim Hannig (Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic).  Joining John and Tim on the panel were Vice Admiral Tony Johnstone-Burt (Master of the Royal Household), David Lillywhite (Editor, Octane magazine), Paul Walton, (Editor, Jaguar World), Karen Marshall (Managing Director, Bridge of Weir Leather Company), Tim Scott (Petrolicious.com classic car aficionado and photographer) and Jaguar’s in-house classic car expert, Tony O’Keeffe.
Chief Judge John Edwards said:
“The standard of cars turned out for the Jaguar Trophy has been really outstanding, and a massive amount of effort has gone in to presenting the 100-plus cars by their owners.  It’s an honour to host our event at Windsor Castle, particularly in Her Majesty The Queen’s 90th year and to be a part of the Concours of Elegance’s celebration of this very significant milestone.
"I am delighted at the support from the Jaguar owners’ fraternity and our congratulations as a judging panel to all the winners.  Jaguar Land Rover Classic continues to grow its support for the brands’ heritage through wonderful experiences like the Jaguar Trophy, as well as offering Classic customers a comprehensive suite of car sales, restorations and original parts supply – across both marques.”

Sunday, 24 August 2014

USA RECALL 7 - 144 Jaguar XK modes for incorrect info for tyre pressures on the placard.

SUMMARY:
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Jaguar) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 XK (XKR and XKR-S) vehicles manufactured August 24, 2012, to June 10, 2014, and equipped with a 5.0L engine. The tire placard has incorrect information for the spare tire stating "none" for the inflation pressure of the spare wheel. Thus, these vehicles do not comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 110, "Tire Selection and Rims for Passenger Cars."
CONSEQUENCE:
If the recommended pressure for the spare tire is not provided, the tire may not be properly inflated which may result in its failure, increasing the risk of a crash.
REMEDY:
Jaguar will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and, as necessary, attach a corrected tire placard label stating the tire size and pressure, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on August 30, 2014. Owners may contact Jaguar customer service at 1-800-452-4827. Jaguar's number for this recall is J041.
NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.


Monday, 4 August 2014

USA - Jaguar performance driving acadamy announces 2014-2015 schedule.

• Jaguar Performance Driving Academy provides drivers with skills needed to unleash the full potential of Jaguar performance models in a controlled track environment
• Academy courses available at Monticello Motor Club, Homestead-Miami Speedway, and Sonoma Raceway
• All courses include vehicles, instructors and reception
• Complimentary Level One course available to qualifying Jaguar R vehicle owners as well as a purchase option for driving enthusiasts. Level Two and Three courses available for purchase.


It’s not often that drivers can unlock the full potential of a performance vehicle. To explore the performance capabilities of Jaguar cars, a host of new track courses will be offered by the Jaguar Performance Driving Academy. Jaguar vehicle owners and enthusiasts alike will have the opportunity to experience the true power of the Jaguar XFR, XJR, XKR and the new F-TYPE R Coupe.


Under the guidance of highly experienced driving instructors, participants will explore the hidden potential of Jaguar vehicles while learning the skills and techniques necessary to safely experience performance driving.

Three course levels will be offered at the academy.

Level One includes autocross exercises, a handling oval and on-track lead-follow exercises to learn racing lines. Offered as a morning or afternoon session, Level One is complimentary to U.S. Jaguar vehicle owners who have purchased a select Jaguar performance model1within the past 12 months. Levels One, Two and Three are also available for purchase by qualifying auto enthusiasts who wish to take part in this exhilarating track experience.

Available to participants that have previously completed Level One, Level Two is a full day session that provides participants with more time behind the wheel. Building on fundamentals learned, Level Two incorporates a skid pad, timed auto-cross, additional on-track lead-follow exercises and recorded video of the laps sent to participants via email.

New to the Jaguar Performance Driving Academy, Level Three is now available to participants that have completed both Level One and Two. Structured as an additional full day course, participants will work one-on-one with a driving instructor to perfect the driving skills previously learned. During this time, participants will also have the opportunity to compare laps to various driving instructors via track telemetry technology.

The Academy will be hosted at the Monticello Motor Club in Monticello, the Homestead-Miami Speedway in Homestead, FL and Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma, CA.

COURSE LOCATIONS AND DATES:

Monticello Motor Club, Monticello, NY:
o Level One: October 2 and 3; AM and PM sessions available
o Level Two: October 4
o Level Three: October 5


Homestead-Miami Speedway, Homestead, FL:
o Level One: December 10 and 12; AM and PM sessions available
o Level Two: December 11 and 13
o Level Three: December 14


Sonoma Raceway, Sonoma, CA:
o Level One: February 17 and 19; AM and PM sessions available
o Level Two: February 18 and 20
o Level Three: February 21


PROGRAM COSTS:

Level One: Complimentary to U.S. Jaguar R, Supersport and Ultimate model owners who have purchased a new vehicle within 12 months. This course is also available for purchase for $895.00

Level Two: Offered to all drivers for a fee of $1,895 (If Levels one and two are registered for and taken together the cost is $2,345)

Level Three: Offered at $2,895 (If Levels two and three are registered for and taken together the cost is $3,495 plus the cost of Level one)


To learn more about the Jaguar Performance Driving Academy and applicable terms and conditions:http://www.jaguarusa.com/events/jaguar-performance-driving-academy/index.html
To learn more about Jaguar performance models please visit: http://www.jaguarusa.com/all-models/all-models/r-performance.html
1XFR, XFR-S, XKR (Coupe or Convertible), XKR-S (Coupe or Convertible), XKR-S GT, XJR, XJ Supersport, XJL Supersport, XJL Ultimate or F-TYPE R Coupe

Friday, 18 April 2014

Jaguar to offer the US customer 50 final edition XKR models.

  • 2015 model year will be the final production run for the Jaguar XK
  • The “XK Final Fifty” limited edition will be the last XKR models produced exclusively  for the US market
  • This limited edition will be based on the 510hp XKR model
  • “XK Final Fifty” limited edition will consist of 25 XKR coupes and 25 XKR convertibles Inspired by the final 50 special-edition run of the E-Type in 1974
  • All painted Ultimate Black with special trim
  • All fifty will be equipped with Performance Pack and Dynamic Pack, which feature performance enhancements to the suspension, aerodynamics and powertrain
Jaguar announced at the New York International Auto Show that it will exclusively offer U.S. customers a limited-edition XK model to mark the end of this model’s production during the 2015 model year. The XK Final Fifty limited edition is based on the 510hp XKR model and will be limited to 25 coupes and 25 convertibles.
The 2015 XK Final Fifty limited edition will be the last 50 XKR models produced for the U.S. market, and will be built during the summer of 2014, reaching showrooms in early fall. In creating the XK Final Fifty limited edition, Jaguar took inspiration from the special final edition of its iconic E-Type sports car in 1974. Fifty E-Type roadsters were made, 49 in black over cinnamon trim and one in British Racing Green, each identified by a special plaque. They are highly sought-after collectibles today.

The 2015 XK Final Fifty limited edition commemorates the evolution of Jaguar grand touring coupes and convertibles that emerged after the E-Type, starting with the XJS in the 1970s and then the XK8 in the 1990s. All have combined distinctive 2+2 style and luxury with high power and polished performance.
These limited edition models will be painted Ultimate Black, with the Convertible featuring a black top. Styling is enhanced by the louvered hood from the limited-production XKR-S GT model – a design highlight that was inspired by the classic E-Type. Inside, all standard XKR luxury is present, with each of these limited edition models identified by a special badge on the center console and an inscribed doorsill treadplate.
Performance upgrades are also included in the XK Final Fifty limited edition, as it will be equipped with both the Dynamic Pack and Performance Pack that are normally optional for XKR models. The Dynamic Pack widens the car’s performance envelope.Special side sills, a rear diffuser and larger rear wing provide the improved aerodynamics needed for Jaguar to provide a 174 mph limited top track speed capability3, compared to the standard 155 mph limited top speed3 for the standard XKR.
The car’s handling prowess is elevated by adopting chassis features and tuning from the XKR-S model, including a 10 mm reduction in ride height, forged and fully machined front suspension components with dedicated spring and damper settings and an upgraded Adaptive Dynamics suspension system1. The Dynamic Pack also adds ‘Vortex’ 20-inch forged wheels.
The Performance Pack contributes Performance seats in Diamond Sewn stitch pattern, Performance Active Exhaust and a Jet Suede cloth steering wheel. The Diamond Sew stitch pattern on the front seat backrests and head restraints and on the rear-seat backrests is rendered in Ivory white stich over Ivory white soft grain leather.

With exhaust valves that open at higher engine speeds, the Performance Active Exhaust system issues an especially powerful note. In addition, a special acoustic filter at the rear of the engine, tuned to “tenor C,” feeds some intake sound to the cabin under hard acceleration.
XK Design Imbues Modernity with Brand Heritage
Melding classic Jaguar design with lightweight yet highly rigid aluminium construction and near-bespoke finishes and luxury, the XK models exemplify the Jaguar tradition of offering outstanding performance, agility and value in the premium luxury category. The current-generation XK was the first Jaguar car designed under the auspices of Jaguar Design Director Ian Callum, whose signature adorns the Final Fifty limited edition badge on the interior. The long-hood, short-deck theme echoes classic Jaguar sports cars while providing a luxurious 2+2 cockpit and usable luggage space.
The standard Xenon automatic headlights include a power wash function and dynamic levelling. Corner lights improve visibility while cornering. Distinctive LED signature running lights, integrated into the headlights, provide a bold and modern look when the XK is in motion. Active Front Lighting directs the headlight beam to focus in the direction of steering input1.
The XK Convertible provides a generous 11.1 cubic-foot trunk(with top up), and the Coupe offers 11.7 cubic feet of space, with the added convenience of rear liftback access.
Advanced Aluminum Structures and Engines
Advanced chassis technology, combined with the inherent weight and stiffness benefits of the aluminium structure, allows the Jaguar XK models to shine through corners while providing a very comfortable ride.
The XK models are based on a lightweight body shell architecture constructed from a combination of pressed, cast and extruded aluminium alloy components. These are riveted and bonded together using aerospace industry techniques adapted for automotive use by Jaguar, and the materials and processes produce a light body shell with very high structural integrity. The structure’s strength, rigidity and lightness provide the foundation for the XK models’exciting performance and its occupant safety systems.
510hp Supercharged V8
Powering the XK Final Fifty limited edition, the XKR supercharged version of the AJ-V8 Gen III 5-liter V8 engine produces 510hp and 461 lb.-ft. of torque, the latter sustained from just 2,500 rpm through 5,500 rpm. A twin vortex system (TVS) supercharger andtwin water-cooled intercoolers are efficiently packaged in the engine’s V. The XK Final Fifty limited edition can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds3 and, with its standard Dynamic Pack, can achieve a top track speed of 174 mph3.
The all-aluminum four-cam Jaguar V8 engines combine high power with high efficiency, thanks to such technologies as spray-guided direct fuel injection and dual independent variable cam timing. An electronically controlled, fully adaptive six-speed automatic transmission with the unique cast alloy JaguarDrive Selector™ as well as the Jaguar Sequential Shift™ function operated by steering-wheel paddles. The transmission is designed to be maintenance-free with “filled-for-life” fluid.

Advanced Chassis Dynamics
The standard Adaptive Dynamics active suspension damping system optimizes handling agility and ride comfort1. The system is designed to monitor body movement 100 times per second and wheel position 500 times per second and automatically increases the damping rate as the suspension approaches the limits of its travel. Adaptive Dynamics also controls wheel hop on uneven roads by rapidly varying the damping to move any wheel out of a natural bouncing frequency, benefiting ride comfort, handling and tire grip.
From the JaguarDrive Control™ interface, the driver can select different modes for Adaptive Dynamics. In Dynamic Mode, Adaptive Dynamics increases body control for a sportier feel and also provides more responsive accelerator pedal reaction and quicker gearshift responses. The Dynamic Stability Control system offers four driver-selectable modes: Normal, Winter, Trac DSC and DSC OFF. Winter Mode yields a more damped acceleratorpedal response to provide progressive control in slippery conditions, with different shift settings that delay and soften gearshifts, also for better control on low grip surfaces1.
In the XKR and XK Final Fifty limited edition models, Adaptive Dynamics operates in tandem with Active Differential Control (ADC) tooptimize available traction at each rear wheel, improving acceleration on low-grip surfaces while enhancing cornering ability. The clutch-type electronic differential is operated by an internal electric motor andball-and-ramp mechanism and transmits torque to the wheel with the most traction. This proactive system differs fundamentally from conventional traction control, which uses the brakes reactively to counteract slip. The ADC goes beyond the capability of mechanical limited slip differentials by actively vectoring torque to improve traction and cornering, especially during spirited driving and in inclement weather1.
Jaguar Luxury
As in Jaguar XF and XJ models, the XK models greet the driver with a “handshake” sequence. Enter the XK using the standard keyless entry and keyless start system, then press the pulsing start button, and the cast alloy JaguarDrive Selector™ rises from the console. When the engine is stopped, the JaguarDrive Selector™ lowers automatically.
Standard equipment includes a dual zone automatic climate control system, auto dimming electro-chromatic power-folding exterior mirrors and front and rearPark Assist with touch-screen visual indicators and rear backup camera1. Heated front seats with 16-way power adjustment and memory are standard equipment. The instruments emphasize the car’s performance character with red pointers against white instrument gauge illumination.
The Convertible’s triple-lined fabric roof, which preserves the classic sports car profile, can be powered up or down in less than 18 seconds at speeds up to 20 mph. When lowered, the top storesin the bodywork behind the rear seats under a smooth cover. The raised top provides a level of fit that minimizes windnoise and road noise even at high speeds. The top’s luxurious interior finish is nearly indistinguishable from that of a closed coupe.
Using the 7-inch touch-screen, the driver or front passenger can access functions for the climate control, navigation system, Bluetooth® mobile connectivity and for Jaguar’s Portable Audio Interface, which are all standard2. The Portable Audio Interface provides iPod® connectivity and enables connection of other music storage devices through a USB port to the audio system, with full touch-screen control2.
The standard Bowers & Wilkins® audio system features 525W maximum output, Dolby®  ProLogic® II Surround Sound, Kevlar®  midrange speakers and aluminum tweeters. Both SiriusXM Satellite Radio™ and HD Radio™ are standard.
Jaguar Safety
All XK models are equipped with front, front side and thorax airbags4. Additionally, Jaguar’s front head restraint system helps protect against whiplash in the event of a rear impact. The XK Convertible’s hidden rollover protection system deploys instantly if sensors identify a risk, helping provide protection for the occupants1.
1 These features are not a substitute for driving safely with due care and attention and will not function under all circumstances, speeds, weather and road conditions, etc.  Driver should not assume that these features will correct errors of judgment in driving.  Please consult the owner's manual or your local authorized Jaguar Retailer for more details.
2 Driving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle control. Do not operate, adjust or view the navigation or multimedia systems under conditions that will affect your safety or the safety of others. Only use mobile phones and other devices, even with voice commands, when it is safe to do so.
3 Always obey local speed limits.
4 Please remember that the safety belts in a vehicle constitute the primary protection system for driver and passengers in collisions. The airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is a supplement to the safety belts and is designed to work as a system with the safety belts. Although airbags provide additional protection, airbags without safety belts do not provide optimal protection in a crash. Always wear your safety belts. Children younger than 13 years old should always be properly restrained in a back seat, away from airbags. Never place an infant seat in the front seat.

2015 JAGUAR XK FINAL FIFTY LIMITED EDITION:TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS*

Engine5-liter V8 AJ133 Gen III DOHC V8, aluminum-
alloy cylinder block
and heads
Bore x Stroke92.5 x 93.0 mm / 3.64 x 3.66 in.
Displacement5,000 cc / 305 cu. in.
Compression ratio9.5:1
Fuel/InductionDirect fuel injection; Eaton twin vortex supercharger
and dual intercoolers
Valvetrain
Chain driven DOHC, four valves per cylinder;
dual independent variable cam timing
IgnitionDirect
Fuel requirementPremium, 91 AKI minimum
Horsepower (SAE)510@6,000-6,500 rpm
Torque lb.-ft. (SAE)461@2,500-5,500 rpm
DrivetrainFront engine, rear-wheel drive
TransmissionJaguar Sequential Shift™ 6-Speed electronic
automatic transmission with steering wheel
mounted paddles and Sport Mode
Transmission ratios(1) 4.17   (2) 2.34   (3) 1.52   (4) 1.14   (5) 0.87   (6) 0.69
Reverse3.40
Final drive ratio3.31
Dynamic control systems1
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Cornering Brake 
Control (CBC), Understeer
Control, Electronic Traction Control (ETC) and 
Engine Drag Torque Control; Active Differential 
Control (ADC; supercharged models only)
ChassisUnitized body construction; primarily aluminum,
aerospace-derived bonding and riveting technologies
Suspension
4-wheel independent with Adaptive Dynamics active 
damping
Dynamic Pack adapts components and tuning from 
XKR-S, with 28% higher spring rate and 10mm lower ride height Front: Double wishbone; coil springs, active dampers, 
stabilizer bar, aluminum components
Rear: Multi-link; coil springs, active dampers,  
stabilizer bar, aluminum components
Brakes
Power-assisted 4-wheel ventilated disc; Electronic 
Brake-force Distribution
(EBD), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and Emergency 
Brake Assist
Front15.0-inch / 380 mm
Rear14.8-inch / 376 mm
SteeringPower-assisted, speed sensitive, variable ratio,
rack and pinion steering
Turning circle35.8 ft.
Wheels/tiresFront: 20 x 8.5-in. w/ 255/35ZR20    Rear: 20 x 9.5-in.
w/ 285/30ZR20
Exterior Dimensions (inches/mm)
Body2+2 Coupe and Convertible
Aerodynamic drag coefficient (Cd)
Coupe: 0.33
Convertible: 0.35
Wheelbase108.3/2,752
Length188.7/4,794
Width74.5/1,892 (mirrors folded) 80.0/2,032 (inc. mirrors)
Height
Coupe: 52.0/1,322 
Convertible: 52.3/1,329
Track (front/rear)61.4/1,560  62.8/1,596 (63.3/1,608 w/ opt. wheels)
Curb weight (lbs.)Coupe: 3,968 Convertible: 4,079
Interior Dimensions (in./m)
Headroom, frontCoupe: 37.4/950 Convertible: 37.8/959
Headroom, rearCoupe: 30.2/767  Convertible: 33.1/840
Legroom, front43.0/1,091
Legroom, rear27.6/700
Shoulder room,
front
56.6 /1,438
Shoulder room,
rear
42.4 / 1.078
Trunk volume
Coupe: 11.7 cu. ft.
Convertible: 11.1 cu. ft. (with top up and mini spare) 
7.1 cubic feet (top down)
Performance
0-60 mph34.6 sec.
Max. track speed3
(electronically limited)
174 mph
Fuel Economy Manufacturer’s Estimated City/Highway MPG**15 / 22
Fuel capacity16.1 U.S. gal./ 71.0 liters
*Manufacturer’s estimates. Correct at press time.
**These amounts are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.

Thursday, 17 April 2014

The David Brown Speedback, yours for the reasonable sum of £495,000

  • Speedback from David Brown Automotive receives public debut at exclusive Monaco show
  • Base-line price announced
The David Brown Automotive Speedback GT has been unveiled to the public for the first time at the Top Marques show in the suitably glamorous surroundings of Monaco. The car will be on display at the exclusive show, held at the Grimaldi Forum, until 20th April (stand F3) with orders being taken for this fabulous hand-built, British sportscar.

Company founder and CEO, David Brown was also on hand to announce the base-line price for Speedback GT: “I am delighted to announce that the price for Speedback GT will be £495,000, excluding local taxes. The finished cars are the product of thousands of hours of highly skilled, hand-built craftsmanship, and production will be limited to 100 vehicles. Of course with orders now being taken our team will work closely with purchasers to ensure that their Speedback is as bespoke as they wish – a process only possibly due to the latest low-volume manufacturing techniques we have employed to produce Speedback.”  

After the media reveal in London late last month, the car has received a vast amount of praise and admiration from across the globe. This unique car, which uses the very best of modern British engineering and production skills combined with traditional skills, is based on the latest generation of Jaguar XKR. Each vehicle will be handcrafted to order.

“We are delighted at the response we have received from the media”, said David Brown. “Speedback has attracted interest from literally every country in the world and we are looking forward to showing the car to an international audience in Monaco and opening our order books for the first time.”

Sunday, 30 March 2014

David Brown Automotive, a new marque for a new era with classic looks, God this car is stunning !

  • TMW THOUGHTS 
This car, is without doubt, a breath of fresh air in the British cottage industry of car making, maybe, Cottage Industry is a bit harsh, as the quality of design, and build is as good as anything currently available,  the attention to detail is second to none, the graceful lines, the leather and wood interior are as good as any you could expect to get from marques with far more experience, Bentley, Aston and Rolls come to mind, the stunning looks of this car just scream retro, yet, the only way i can call this car is a Classic Modern Classic.

The Jaguar underpinnings are a brilliant choice, it gives this Aston, oops, DB, oops, David Brown Speedback a low slung aggressive stance, if this car can go, like it looks, then all i can see for this new British brand is a bright and LONG future. Yes it is a huge nod to the past with the Aston look, but with Mr Bond and his Aston constantly in the public eye, it is a car that wont go out of fashion, and those spoked wheels just take it a further step in the right direction.

This car is a brilliant choice, what next, well there is already an Eagle E-Type at huge money, what about a modern interpretation of the XK120, only time will tell if this new quality marque will expand further, but for now we will have two stunning cars to ogle, and just maybe, the posters on boys and girls, bedroom walls, will once again have something truly British, true quality, and a real car to aspire too, it has been too long, but a great british icon has been woken from its slumber and will rise to once again be the car of choice, well, for those with deep DEEP pockets.

Can I have a test drive please ?

Jon Mower
-----------------

  • New model revealed to the media at exclusive preview in London
  • Speedback name announced
  • Car to be exhibited at Top Marques Monaco in April
At an exclusive media briefing in London, David Brown Automotive unveiled its unique handcrafted GT car for the first time. It was also revealed that this exciting and highly anticipated new car, which is designed, engineered and hand-crafted in Britain, will be called Speedback: a name which reflects the elegant yet purposeful lines of the V8 powered sports coupé.

Speedback will remain at the venue in London over the weekend for viewing and will then travel to Monaco to be shown publicly for the first time at the exclusive Top Marques show, which runs at the Grimaldi Forum from 17th to 20th April. The car will be on display on stand F3 and the full team will be available to discuss the car, its specifications and to take orders during the event.

Company founder and CEO, David Brown has a long-standing background in engineering, vehicle manufacturing and an equally strong enthusiasm for both classic and contemporary cars (although he has no connection with either Aston Martin, its founder, Sir David Brown, or with the David Brown Group). With his concept for a classically styled GT car with modern mechanicals and reliability, he began to assemble his specialist team some two years ago.

He said: “The launch of Speedback is the realisation of a dream for me, and is the result of skilful and dedicated work by a team of highly talented designers, engineers and craftsmen. I am delighted at the reaction of the media, our suppliers, potential customers and friends, and I look forward to presenting the car to the public in Monaco. The Speedback name perfectly reflects the classic sports car tradition of the past, whilst also doing justice to the sophisticated silhouette of the car’s hand-built body and unique styling which features amongst much other detail, a fold-down picnic seat.”
The car revealed today is the result of 18 months of hard work by the David Brown Automotive team, including highly-experienced Chief Designer, Alan Mobberley. The car, which has been engineered and handcrafted in Coventry, proudly uses traditional British materials and craftsmanship. Speedback promises exceptional performance and handling from the latest Jaguar 5 litre supercharged engine. Customers of Speedback are able to request any level of tuning or engine enhancements they desire.

“This car will appeal to anybody who desires a truly individual sports car, which can boast a fine British pedigree and which will only be produced in limited numbers, thus ensuring the kind of exclusivity associated with Britain’s once proud heritage of traditional, high-quality, automotive coach-building”, said David.
Also on display was a unique handcrafted 1:4 scale British granite model of Speedback, crafted by Lapicida in Harrogate.

The London media briefing and subsequent launch party was held at the London showroom of specialist stone suppliers, Lapicida, another of David Brown’s business interests. Guests were also able to lean against their handcrafted marble bar and enjoy speciality beers from one of David’s latest business venture, BAD Company; a craft brewery based in North Yorkshire. The three brews, Dazed & ConfusedLove Over Gold and Comfortably Numb were the perfect accompaniment to this handcrafted British car.

Today also saw the full David Brown Automotive website launched, featuring full information on Speedback, beautiful images of the car and the craftsmanship behind it. You can also join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook using #HistoryInTheMaking.